Why You’ll Love This Tortellini Pasta Salad
Tortellini pasta salad is a vibrant, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with cheese-filled tortellini, fresh vegetables, savory meats, and a tangy dressing, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit at barbecues, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Best of all, it comes together in just 20 minutes!
Table of contents
Ingredients for the Best Tortellini Pasta Salad
To make a flavorful tortellini pasta salad, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and a bold dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini – Cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes – Halved
- 1 cup cucumber – Diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper – Chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion – Finely sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives – Sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls – Or cubed mozzarella
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Grated
- 1/2 cup salami or pepperoni – Sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil – Chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
How to Make Tortellini Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the tortellini cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Slice the salami or pepperoni (if using). Chop the fresh basil.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and honey. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and sliced meat. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Tortellini Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp honey optional, for balance
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and black olives. Slice the basil into thin strips.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and honey.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, give it a final toss and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing, flavorful pasta salad!
Video
Notes
Tips for the Best Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Use fresh tortellini for the best texture and flavor.
- Rinse with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking and stop the cooking process.
- Let it marinate – The flavors develop best when the salad sits for at least 30 minutes.
- Customize your toppings – Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or artichoke hearts for more variety.
- Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What to Serve with Tortellini Pasta Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even a simple soup. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Chicken Breast – A lean protein option
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra dressing
- Minestrone Soup – A warm and hearty complement
- Caprese Salad – For a fresh, Italian-inspired meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. If making it ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving.
Absolutely. While homemade dressing enhances the flavors, a high-quality store-bought Italian or balsamic dressing works great.
Yes! Just use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
It stays fresh for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. If it dries out, add a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
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Final Thoughts
Tortellini pasta salad is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, flavorful meal!
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Tortellini Pasta Salad recipes